If you are considering advanced research study in the UK, the postgraduate research programmes at The University of Manchester offer a wide and flexible range of options tailored to both international and UK-based students. In this post we will explore what makes Manchester an appealing choice for research degrees, the types of programmes on offer and the subject-areas you can select.

Why choose Manchester for postgraduate research

Manchester is well known for its strong research culture, meaning that as a research student you will not just complete your study but become part of a vibrant academic community. The University emphasises researcher development, offering training and support alongside your project.

Whether you have a specific supervisor or project in mind, or you are still exploring subject-areas, Manchester provides a “programme finder” and extensive listings to help you.

Types of research degree available

At Manchester you’ll find several categories of postgraduate research degrees. Here are the main types:

1. Research Master’s (for example an MSc by Research or MEnt): a 12-month programme including taught units, research skills training and a substantial project.
2. Master of Philosophy (MPhil): usually lasting about 12 months, based on a shorter thesis than a PhD. Completion may lead into a doctoral registration.
3. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD): typically between 3-4 years, focusing on supervised independent research that makes an original contribution to knowledge.
4. Doctor of Medicine (MD) and Master of Surgery (ChM): two-year research programmes in medical and surgical fields respectively.
5. Professional, Engineering and Enterprise Doctorates (EngD, EntD etc): these combine taught elements and research and are designed for professionals seeking higher level research within a professional context.
6. Centres for Doctoral Training (CDT) PhD: a four-year research degree integrating taught courses with supervised research, often interdisciplinary.
7. Full-time or—where permitted—part-time study modes. Note: international students from non-EU countries are generally required to study full-time.

Research areas and subject breadth

One of Manchester’s strong points is the exceptionally broad range of disciplines in which you can pursue research. The list covers sciences, engineering, arts, social sciences, business and more. Some examples include:

1. Accounting and Finance
2. Aerospace Engineering
3. Anthropology, Media and Performance
4. Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biosciences
5. Computer Science, Informatics
6. Earth and Environmental Sciences
7. Law, Linguistics and English Language
8. Management of Projects in Engineering
9. Materials, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering
10. Medicine, Pharmacy, Physics and Astronomy
11. … and many more.

This wide selection means you can both identify your interest area and find suitable supervision or project offers at Manchester.

How this helps you (and next steps)

If you are planning to apply, here are some actionable tips:

1. Explore the subject-areas listing to identify where your interests lie.
2. Use the programme finder at Manchester to check for current projects, supervisors or research centres.
3. Choose the type of degree that suits your career aim—whether you want a shorter project (MPhil) or the full doctoral experience (PhD/CDT).
4. Check whether your mode of study (full-time vs part-time) is permitted for your student status (especially for international applicants).
5. Prepare for the skills training and researcher development support that will enhance your research experience and career prospects.

References:

1. https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/programmes/
2. https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/programmes/types/
3. https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/programmes/research-areas/